How many calories are in your alcoholic drink?

Do you know how many calories are in your favourite tipple? See how it stacks up. Alcoholic drinks can be deceptively high in calories. Did you know that alcohol contains 7 calories per gram? That’s more than carbohydrates or protein, and almost as much as fats (9 calories per gram). Puts it into perspective, doesn’t it? If you want to reduce the amount of calories you’re taking in from alcohol, start by understanding just how many calories alcoholic drinks contain. You can then track your current intake and take sensible steps to reduce it.

What's in your drink?

Alcohol is often referred to as "empty calories" because it's high in calories but low in meaningful nutrition. Alcohol contains no fibre, protein, essential fats, vitamins or minerals. Instead, it's almost purely carbohydrates in the form of sugar. And don't forget that alcohol has a knock-on effect on your diet, too. It can impair your judgement, making you choose higher-calorie foods and snacks. It can make you feel hungrier, leading to excess eating. And if you suffer from a hangover the day after drinking, you are more likely to overeat stodgy, heavy comfort foods.  

1 large glass of red wine

210 calories Equivalent to a small portion of fast-food fries  

Half a bottle of wine

300+ calories Equivalent to a bacon and egg sarnie  

1 bottle of white wine

600+ calories Equivalent to a small cheese and tomato pizza  

2 glasses of Prosecco

160 calories Equivalent to a slice of cheese and tomato pizza  

1 pint cider

220 calories Equivalent to a powdered sugar ring doughnut  

1 pint lager

180 calories Equivalent to a slice of pizza with all the toppings  

2 double vodka and slimline tonics

220 calories Equivalent to a Galaxy chocolate bar Handpicked Content: How long does it take to burn off your favourite drink?